Combating elder abuse

CARMEL- With Putnam’s graying population dramatically increasing, lawmakers are concerned that older adults are treated with respect and dignity enabling them to serve as leaders, mentors and volunteers.

Earlier this summer the Putnam Legislature proclaimed World Elder Abuse Awareness Day throughout the county to raise awareness while preventing and addressing the issue.

Legislator Greg Ellner said the major causes of elder abuse stems from an understanding that “ageism and social isolation” must be understood while “ensuring that proper social structures exist so people can retain community and societal connections reducing the likelihood of abuse.”

The legislators also noted that by maintaining and improving social supports such as senior centers, human services and transportation, o